---
title: "What Is Mouthwash (mouth rinse)? Dental Glossary"
description: "Mouthwash, or mouth rinse, is a liquid you swish in your mouth. Some kinds help reduce plaque, gingivitis and cavities, and others only freshen breath."
url: https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/mouthwash-mouth-rinse
publisher: Town Center Dental
phone: +1-636-273-5866
quote: https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment
---

Prevention and Hygiene

# Mouthwash (mouth rinse)

Mouthwash, or mouth rinse, is a liquid you swish in your mouth. Some kinds help reduce plaque, gingivitis and cavities, and others only freshen breath.

Mouthwash is not a replacement for daily brushing and flossing, but it may be a helpful addition for some people. MouthHealthy says it can reach areas a toothbrush cannot and may help prevent or control tooth decay, reduce plaque, reduce gingivitis, slow tartar, and freshen breath.

There are two main types. Therapeutic mouthwashes have active ingredients that can help reduce plaque, gingivitis, and cavities. Those with fluoride help [remineralize](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/remineralization) enamel. Cosmetic mouthwashes may only reduce bad breath for a short time.

Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Mouthwash is not recommended for children younger than 6, who may swallow it. Talk to your dentist about whether you need one. See [oral hygiene](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/oral-hygiene), [gingivitis](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/gingivitis), and chlorhexidine rinse.

## Related terms

-   [Chlorhexidine rinse](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/chlorhexidine-rinse)
-   [Gingivitis](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/gingivitis)
-   [Oral hygiene](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/oral-hygiene)
-   [Remineralization](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/remineralization)
-   [Dental plaque](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-plaque)

## Sources

1.  [ADA MouthHealthy: Mouthwash](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/mouthwash)
2.  [ADA MouthHealthy: Mouthwash](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/mouthwash)

## Ready when you are

[Request an appointment](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment)[Call (636) 273-5866](tel:+1-636-273-5866)